The 3DS Virtual Console is the name of Nintendo's video game download service for the 3DS. Through the Nintendo eShop, 3DS owners are able to purchase and download re-released titles from previous Nintendo video game systems, as well as formerly competing consoles. Twenty games (ten NES and ten Game Boy Advance) were given for free to 3DS Ambassadors.

Games are stretched on the Nintendo 3DS screen, but can be played in the original resolution by holding either or when launching a game. For Game Boy games, a border of the original Game Boy is placed around the game screen in the original resolution. When 3D is turned on, the game screen is slightly depressed. Hold and and press to switch between black and white and the original green colors.